Lakshadweep to get new airport in bid to increase tourism

Community-based model to be developed in conjunction with local partners

Lakshadweep’s Minicoy Island will soon host an airport, according to a decision taken by the Island Development Agency (IDA). The IDA was set up earlier this year, to help better the livelihoods of the local communities and ensure the development and progress of the country’s islands.

Considering the unique maritime biodiversity and natural wealth of the islands, connectivity and therefore tourism have been recognised as key priorities, according to a press release from the home ministry. Home minister Rajnath Singh, who chaired the IDA meeting asked those concerned to help speed up develop tourism initiatives in partnership with local stakeholders.

The Island Development Agency reviewed the development plans for nine islands—four in Andaman and Nicobar Islands (Smith, Ross, Long, Avis) and five in Lakshadweep (Minicoy, Bangaram, Thinnakara, Cheriyam, Suheli).

Setting up a tourist economy in Lakshadweep has been difficult, to say the least. The islands in Lakshadweep that are currently accessible to the public are Kavaratti, Kadmat, Bangaram, Kalpeni and Minicoy, with limited but expensive connectivity and accommodation options. To get to Lakshadweep currently, one has to fly to Agatti airport or take a passenger ship from Kochi.